Cardiac-Vascular Nursing (CVRN) Practice Exam

Which parameter is important for a nurse to monitor in a patient receiving anticoagulants?

1. Blood pressure

2. Heart rate

3. International normalized ratio (INR)

4. Serum potassium levels

The correct answer is: International normalized ratio (INR)

Monitoring the International Normalized Ratio (INR) is crucial for patients receiving anticoagulants, particularly those on warfarin therapy. The INR is a standardized measure of blood coagulation that helps assess the blood's ability to clot effectively. Anticoagulants aim to prevent blood clots while minimizing the risk of excessive bleeding. An appropriate INR level is vital because it indicates whether the anticoagulant is at the desired therapeutic level. If the INR is too low, there is a risk of clot formation, which could lead to conditions such as deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. Conversely, if the INR is too high, there is a significant risk of bleeding complications, including hemorrhage. Therefore, regular monitoring of the INR allows for the appropriate adjustment of anticoagulant dosing, ensuring patient safety and effective treatment. Other parameters, while important in patient care, do not provide the specific information necessary to guide anticoagulant therapy. For example, blood pressure may indicate overall vascular health but does not specifically reflect coagulation status. Likewise, heart rate can signal changes in cardiac function but is not directly related to the effects of anticoagulants. Serum potassium levels, while important for cardiac function, do not correlate with the anticoagulation effect